Semiparametric hierarchical selection models for bayesian meta analysis

Abstract

Meta-analysis refers to quantitative methods for combining results from independent studies in order to draw overall conclusions. Hierarchical models including selection models are introduced and shown to be useful in such Bayesian meta-analysis. Semiparametric hierarchical models are proposed using the Dirichlet process prior. These rich class of models combine the information of independent studies, allowing investigation of variability both between and within studies, and weight function. Here we investigate sensitivity of results to unobserved studies by considering a hierarchical selection model with including unknown weight function and use Markov chain Monte Carlo methods to develop inference for the parameters of interest. Using Bayesian method, this model is used on a meta-analysis of twelve studies comparing the effectiveness of two different types of flouride, in preventing cavities. Clinical informative prior is assumed. Summaries and plots of model parameters are analyzed to address questions of interest.